DAC 230 Assessment & Documentation in Addictions Counseling

This course provides an overview of industry-standard assessments used in addictions treatment. Topics covered include various aspects of the healthcare record documentation for substance use, behavioral disorders, and co-occurring problems.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: (Test score or ENG 101 or higher)and DAC 141

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

DAC 230 Assessment & Documentation in Addictions Counseling

Campus Location

  • Dover
  • Wilmington

Effective Date

2025-51

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: (Test score or ENG 101 or higher)and DAC 141

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

3 lecture hours/week

0 lab hours/week

Course Description

This course provides an overview of industry-standard assessments used in addictions treatment. Topics covered include various aspects of the healthcare record documentation for substance use, behavioral disorders, and co-occurring problems.

Additional Materials

None.

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Disclaimer

None.

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

1. Conduct an intake using industry standard assessment tools used in the addictions field. (CCC 1, 2, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

2. Create clear, concise, and accurate documentation to record and communicate client information using industry standards. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

3. Differentiate between various assessments used for documenting co-occurring disorders. (CCC 1, 2, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

4. Apply an industry standard model to assess presenting problems and document the continuum of treatment. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Conduct an intake using industry standard assessment tools used in the addictions field.

    1. Identify the components of a basic substance abuse evaluation including screening, intake, and assessment.

    2. Identify the appropriate use of all components of a basic substance abuse evaluation.

    3. Administer the basic components of a substance abuse evaluation.

    4. Interpret the results of the substance abuse evaluation to develop a treatment plan.

    5. Communicate the results of the substance abuse evaluation consistent with industry standards.

    6. Use software assisted assessment tools to document client participation and progress in treatment.

  2. Create clear, concise, and accurate documentation to record and communicate client information using industry standards.

    1. Identify the components of a treatment plan, a progress note, and a discharge plan to meet the identified client needs.

    2. Compose a treatment plan, a progress note, and a discharge plan.

    3. Describe the use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) diagnostic system with a focus on substance abuse disorders

    4. Apply ethical standards in documenting the continuum of addictions treatment.

  3. Differentiate between the various assessments used for documenting co-occurring disorders.

    1. Examine the concept of co-occurring disorders.

    2. Compare and contrast the essential features of the various behavioral addictions.

    3. Demonstrate the correct use of assessment tools to screen and identify the various behavioral addictions.

  4. Apply an industry standard model to assess presenting problems and document the continuum of treatment.

    1. Evaluate where the client is in the change process

    2. Create documentation based on the evaluation process and treatment progress.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Final Course Grade

Calculated using the following weighted average

Evaluation Measure

Percentage of final grade

Summative Assessments

Exams (2-3 Exams—Equally Weighted)

30%

Final Client Documentation

50%

Formative Assessments

The course will contain a various number of formative assessments including but not limited to (Formative assignments are not equally weighted):

  • Quizzes
  • Case studies
  • Journals
  • Discussion boards
  • Class participation activities

20%

TOTAL

100%

Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)

  1. Create and maintain effective and professional documents relevant to Drug and Alcohol Counseling.
  2. Interact ethically and professionally within the Drug and Alcohol Counseling field.
  3. Apply information to identify client’s strengths, weaknesses, and resources to create a treatment plan.
  4. Provide effective client services at an entry level by utilizing professional Drug and Alcohol Counseling principles and practices.
  5. Establish effective working relationships within the Drug and Alcohol Counseling arena.
  6. Apply basic management and leadership skills in Drug and Alcohol Counseling environments, including time management, organization, and the ability to follow directions.
  7. Utilize feedback to assess the effect of oneself on Drug and Alcohol Counseling outcomes and make adjustments accordingly.

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.